Neurons can make different responses to identical inputs. According to the emerging frequency of repetitive firing, neurons
are classified into two types: type 1 and type 2 excitability. Though in mathematical simulations, minor modifications of
parameters describing ionic currents can result in transitions between these two excitabilities, empirical evidence to support
these theoretical possibilities is scarce. Here we report a joint theoretical and experimental study to test the hypothesis
that changes in parameters describing ionic currents cause predictable transitions between the two excitabilities in mesencephalic
V (Mes V) neurons. We developed a simple mathematical model of Mes V neurons. Using bifurcation analysis and model simulation,
we then predicted that changes in conductance of two low-threshold currents would result in transitions between type 1 and
type 2. Finally, by applying specific channel blockers, we observed the transition between two excitabilities forecast by
the mathematical model.
Keywords Excitability - Steady-state I–V relation - Type 1 excitability - Type 2 excitability - Bifurcation -
I
NaP
-
I
4-AP
- Frequency–current function - Mes V
Action Editor: G. Bard Ermentrout